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Tributes are pouring in after a Doncaster Knights prop tragically died during a training session yesterday.
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It has been a heart-breaking day at Castle Park as one of our own, Ian Williams, tragically passed away at training this morning. As a Club we pass on our deepest sympathies to Ian's family & close friends & thank the emergency responders 1st on the scene https://t.co/2oOsFuWBEP pic.twitter.com/PsipERCiqi
— Doncaster Knights ? (@DoncasterKnight) February 20, 2018
27-year-old Ian Williams collapsed during training and passed away despite the best effort of the emergency services.
A statement on the Doncaster Knights website reads: “It is with great sadness that Doncaster RFC announces the passing of prop forward Ian Williams.
“Ian collapsed at training at Castle Park this morning and, despite the best efforts of the emergency response team, could not be resuscitated.
“Ian joined the Club in summer 2017 from Rotherham Titans and quickly became a well-liked member of the Knights squad making six appearances for the Club.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to Ian’s mother Pippa, father Phillip & and sister Helen and are working with a counselling team in the best interest of Ian’s teammates.”
“Details of Ian’s funeral will be posted once known.
“The club will be making no further comment at this time.”
The RFU stated: “On behalf of everyone at the Rugby Football Union and the Greene King IPA Championship we extend our heartfelt sympathies to Ian’s family, friends and team mates. It will be a difficult time and they can be assured of our support.”
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The 6’4, 126kg Williams moved to Doncaster Knights in 2017 from Rotherham Titans.
An Oxford University graduate, Williams earned many plaudits for a dominant performance in the 2013 Varsity Match against Cambridge and was subsequently selected to represent Wales Students.
Our thoughts are with the friends and family of @DoncasterKnight prop Ian Williams who tragically passed away in training this morning: https://t.co/TK36AiYNzj pic.twitter.com/gU0B578ust
— Championship Rugby (@Champrugby) February 20, 2018
Terribly sad news. Thoughts with Ian’s friends, family, teammates and the entire Doncaster Knights family
— Northampton Saints ? (@SaintsRugby) February 20, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at the club and with Ian’s family and friends.
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) February 20, 2018
Tragic news, our thoughts are with Ian's family & friends and everyone at @DoncasterKnight #RugbyFamily
— London Irish (@londonirish) February 20, 2018
Such heartbreaking news. Our thoughts and condolences are with you and all who knew him at this sad time #RestInPeace
— Bath Rugby (@BathRugby) February 20, 2018
